FlavScents AInsights Entry: Gamma-Dodecalactone

1. Identity & Chemical Information

• Common Name(s): Gamma-Dodecalactone
• IUPAC Name: 5-Heptyloxolan-2-one
• CAS Number: 713-95-1
• FEMA Number: 2402
• Other Identifiers: FL No. 09.013
• Molecular Formula: C12H22O2
• Molecular Weight: 198.31 g/mol

Gamma-dodecalactone is a lactone compound characterized by its oxolane ring, which contributes to its creamy, peach-like aroma. The presence of the lactone ring is crucial for its odor profile, as it imparts the sweet, fruity notes that are highly valued in flavor and fragrance applications.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; PubChem; FEMA

2. Sensory Profile

Gamma-dodecalactone is renowned for its rich, creamy, and fruity aroma, reminiscent of peaches and cream. It is often described as having a sweet, milky, and slightly coconut-like scent. The compound is used as an impact note in formulations, providing a strong, diffusive character that enhances the overall sensory experience. While specific taste and odor thresholds are not widely documented, gamma-dodecalactone is known for its potent aroma, requiring careful dosing to achieve the desired effect without overpowering other components.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; peer-reviewed sensory literature

3. Natural Occurrence & Formation

Gamma-dodecalactone occurs naturally in a variety of fruits, including peaches, apricots, and strawberries. It is formed through the enzymatic degradation of fatty acids, specifically from the oxidation of ricinoleic acid. This compound is often used to enhance the "natural flavor" designation in products due to its presence in many fruits and its ability to mimic natural fruit aromas effectively.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; food chemistry literature; EFSA/JECFA monographs

4. Use in Flavors

Gamma-dodecalactone is extensively used in flavor formulations, particularly in fruit-flavored products such as peach, apricot, and strawberry. It serves as a key impact note, providing a creamy, fruity base that enhances the authenticity of fruit flavors. Typical use levels in finished food products range from 1 to 10 ppm, with higher concentrations used in more robust flavor profiles. The compound is stable under typical processing conditions but may degrade under extreme heat or acidic environments.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; FEMA GRAS documentation; formulation literature

5. Use in Fragrances

In the fragrance industry, gamma-dodecalactone is utilized in various fragrance families, including fruity, floral, and gourmand. It acts as a modifier and impact note, contributing to the creamy, sweet undertones in perfumes and personal care products. Typical concentrations range from trace amounts to 0.1% in formulations, depending on the desired intensity. Its volatility allows it to function as a middle note, providing a lasting creamy aroma that blends well with other fragrance components.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; IFRA; fragrance chemistry texts

6. Regulatory Status (Regional Overview)

• United States: Recognized as GRAS by FEMA for flavor use.
• European Union: Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008 with FL number 09.013.
• United Kingdom: Follows EU regulations post-Brexit with no significant divergence reported.
• Asia: Approved for use in Japan and China, with specific concentration limits varying by country.
• Latin America: Generally accepted in Brazil and MERCOSUR countries, with harmonized assumptions based on international standards.

Citation hooks: FEMA; EFSA; national authority publications

7. Toxicology, Safety & Exposure Considerations

Gamma-dodecalactone is considered safe for use in food and fragrance applications. For oral exposure, it has a high margin of safety with no adverse effects reported at typical use levels. Dermal exposure in fragrance applications shows low irritation potential, aligning with IFRA guidelines. Inhalation exposure is minimal due to its low volatility, reducing occupational risks. Overall, the risk profiles are similar across food and fragrance uses, with no significant safety concerns identified.

Citation hooks: EFSA; FEMA; PubChem; toxicology literature

8. Practical Insights for Formulators

Gamma-dodecalactone is valued for its ability to impart a creamy, fruity aroma that enhances the authenticity of fruit flavors and fragrances. It synergizes well with other lactones and fruity esters, creating complex, layered profiles. Formulators should be cautious of its potency, as overuse can lead to an overpowering aroma. It is often underutilized in non-fruit applications, where it can add depth and richness.

Citation hooks: FlavScents; industry practice

9. Confidence & Data Quality Notes

The data on gamma-dodecalactone is well-established, with comprehensive sensory and regulatory information available. Industry practices are well-documented, though specific sensory thresholds are less frequently reported. No significant data gaps or regulatory ambiguities are noted, providing a high level of confidence in its use.

Citation hooks: FlavScents

QA Check

• All required sections 1–9 are present
• "Citation hooks:" line is present under each section
• Flavor section includes ppm ranges
• Toxicology section covers oral, dermal, inhalation
• Regulatory section mentions US, EU, UK, Asia, Latin America
• If complex natural material: includes section 5a (not applicable here)

About FlavScents AInsights (Disclosure)
FlavScents AInsights integrates information from authoritative government, scientific, academic, and industry sources to provide applied, exposure-aware insight into flavor and fragrance materials. Data are drawn from regulatory bodies, expert safety panels, peer-reviewed literature, public chemical databases, and long-standing professional practice within the flavor and fragrance community. Where explicit published values exist, they are reported directly; where gaps remain, AInsights reflects widely accepted industry-typical practice derived from convergent sensory behavior, historical commercial use, regulatory non-objection, and expert consensus. All such information is clearly labeled to distinguish documented data from professional guidance or informed estimation, with the goal of offering transparent, practical, and scientifically responsible context for researchers, formulators, and regulatory specialists. This section is generated using advanced computational language modeling to synthesize and structure information from established scientific and regulatory knowledge bases, with the intent of supporting—not replacing—expert review and judgment.

Generated 2026-08-24 06:52:37 GMT (p2)